Stop touching your eyes is a phrase I couldnt escape growing up.
I ended up with no eyelashesjust raw, red eyelids.
I couldnt even admit to myself that I had this problem because I was so embarrassed.
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I felt like a freak because I didnt know anyone else who pulled out their eyelashes.
After I realized this issue wasnt going anywhere, I decided to seek treatment and go totherapy.
My psychologist told me I was engaging in a body-focused repetitive behavior known astrichotillomania.
In my case, it was pulling out eyelashes.
These strategies ultimately changed my life.
Its important to note that while these tips have worked for me, everyone is different.
I use a fidget toy.
Conversely, urges can also be quite strong during periods of boredom, she explains.
I put Band-Aids on my fingertips.
This trick is a bit more difficult to use right now as frequenthandwashingandhand-sanitizingare so important.
If it works, it works.
I go to a different room.
In my experience, I tend to pull in the same room at the same time.
This includes setting-related triggers like being in the same place at the same time.
so you can determine what patterns your trichotillomania follows, Dr. Gill suggests keeping a log.
Of course, being around people has been a bit harder due tosocial distancing guidelinesrelated to the pandemic.
However, you dont have to be in close proximity to be around people.
I put petroleum jelly on my fingers.
This tip can be a little trich-y (see what I did there?)
since it prevents me from doing my work efficiently.
Similar to Band-Aids, petroleum jelly makes it difficult for me to get a grip on the hair.
This avoids transferring germs from your hands and even your eyes to and from the petroleum jelly container.
I sit on my hands.
This is probably the most difficult strategy to use because there are no external forces there to help you.
I remind myself of my why.
Developing a why can be hard when the urge is so strong and recovery doesnt seem possible.
However, start small.
Why are you reading this article?
Youre likely looking for different coping mechanisms to help with BFRBs because you want to help yourself.
That can be your why.
If youre not sure how to tell the difference, the next tip might be particularly helpful.
Several studieshave shown that individuals with trichotillomania rarely seek help from a mental health provider, says Dr. Gill.
Unfortunately trichotillomania frequently goes undiagnosed or is misdiagnosed as obsessive compulsive disorder.
